Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common viral infection that most people encounter at some point in their lives. While often associated with the genital areas, HPV can also affect the mouth and throat, leading to what is known as oral HPV. Over 100 different strains of HPV exist, and about 40 of these can impact the mouth, throat, and genitals.
Common Appearances of Oral HPV
The most frequently observed lesion is the oral papilloma, which appears as a small growth. These growths are often described as flesh-colored, whitish, or pink, and may have a textured, cauliflower-like surface. They are typically benign and generally painless.
Other types of oral HPV lesions might present as flat or slightly raised areas, making them more challenging to identify visually. The color of these lesions can vary, appearing as pink, white, red, tan, or even the same color as the surrounding oral tissue. Their texture can range from smooth to bumpy, granular, or possessing finger-like projections.
These growths can appear as single lesions or in multiples. Common locations for oral HPV lesions include the tongue, soft palate, tonsils, lips, and inner cheeks. They can also be found on the floor of the mouth.
Accompanying Symptoms and Sensations
Many oral HPV infections, including those that cause visible lesions, are often asymptomatic. They often cause no pain or discomfort and may go unnoticed. Because of this, people may unknowingly transmit the virus.
However, if symptoms do occur, they can include soreness or discomfort, though this is less common for benign lesions. Larger lesions or those located in specific areas might lead to difficulty swallowing or speaking. Other potential sensations include a lump sensation in the throat, a persistent cough, or hoarseness. Bleeding from the lesion is rare and typically only happens if it becomes irritated.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for any new or unusual growth in your mouth or throat. This includes any lump, bump, sore, or discoloration that persists for more than a couple of weeks. Seeking prompt evaluation is important regardless of whether the change causes pain.
You should also seek medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms such as a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or voice changes. Unexplained weight loss, especially when combined with any visible lesions, warrants a professional assessment. Regular dental check-ups are also important, as dentists are often the first to identify oral abnormalities during routine examinations.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
The diagnosis of oral HPV starts with a visual examination by a dentist or doctor. If a suspicious lesion is identified, a definitive diagnosis often requires a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken. This tissue sample can also be tested for the presence of HPV DNA.
Many benign oral HPV lesions do not require intervention, as they may resolve on their own. The body’s immune system often clears the virus within one to two years. However, for lesions that are persistent, cause symptoms, or are cosmetically concerning, removal options are available.
These removal methods include surgical excision, laser therapy, or cryotherapy, which involves freezing the lesion. There is no specific antiviral medication to treat the HPV virus itself; instead, treatments focus on removing the visible lesions. Following treatment, regular monitoring is important to check for recurrence or the development of new lesions.